A native of Buffalo, New York, I was blessed to grow up under the influence of my music minister Dad. As a kid, I was immersed in the world of melodies and harmonies, shaping my passion for music. As I progressed through high school, I went further into the discipines of voice and brass studying under Gerald Soffer of the Buffalo Philharmonic, honing my skills and gaining a deeper appreciation for the art.
My musical journey has given me great opportunities. As a young person, I became a part of the Greater Buffalo Youth Orchestra under Gerard Floriano, where I had the opportunity to perform alongside the Buffalo Philharmonic and SUNY Albany under the invitation of Governor George Pataki. Throughout my college years, I not only studied but also shared worship music around the world through performances with the Crown College Choir in cities like New York and across the United Kingdom under the direction of Dr. Earl Holloway. In my professional career, it is my joy to lead the weekly worship services of the Calvary Baptist Church, as well as missional opportunities leading the Celebration Choir at Carnegie Hall and the American Festival Choir at the Kennedy Center.
After coming to saving faith at the age of eighteen, I completed my undergraduate degree in church music. Shortly after, I pursued a Master’s Degree in Christian Education, a decision that paved the way for me to serve as the Fine Arts Department Chair at Temple Baptist Academy and adjunct faculty in the School of Music at Crown College, directing the Crown College Choir. My role allowed me to guide and inspire future worship leaders, developing their artistic talents and deepening their understanding of Christian worship.
I found my greatest blessing in 2010 – the love of my life, Bec. Our family expanded with the arrival of our twin boys, Wes and Gabe, followed by our daughter, Anna. My wife and I left Tennessee to begin a new calling at Calvary Baptist Church in Ashland, OH, where we currently serve.
A Scholarly Pursuit of Worship:
My drive for learning and my commitment to theology led me to continue in higher education. I earned a Master of Ministry from Luther Rice College and Seminary, followed by a Master of Divinity from Liberty University. These degrees not only enriched my understanding of theology and worship but also ignited a desire to go deeper.
Presently, I am enrolled the PhD program for Christian Worship at Liberty University’s School of Music under the mentorship of Dr. R. Scott Connell. This new chapter in my academic journey has allowed me to blend my two passions, law enforcement chaplaincy and worship theology. As a member of the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association Chaplain’s Board and part of the MAT for the Ohio Highway Patrol, I have the privilege to lead worship services quarterly for first responders across the state of Ohio. God has opened many community doors, including as a board member of the Ashland County Public Library and the Appleseed Community Mental Health Center.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me better. As I continue to explore the realms of worship, I invite you to walk alongside me, as we explore the beauty of the gospel revealed through the worship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Together, let’s embrace the gospel purpose and passion that defines the Christian life– a journey that continues to unfold, one note at a time
With gratitude,
Josh Cehulik
Josh Cehulik 